The addition of catechol derivatives to boric acid affords a diverse family of compounds called arylspiroboronate esters. Due to boron's relatively low toxicity towards mammals, arylspiroboronate esters have several biological applications and are active for the treatment of wood against fungi and rot. These compounds are also finding increased use in organic synthesis and in catalysis. This critical review presents the synthesis, properties and applications of these remarkable compounds (149 references).